Chesterfield: Maguire Mk 2 on standby for Spireites debut

Phil Tooley

Manager Danny Wilson may have to give 18-year-old Laurence Maguire a debut tomorrow in Chesterfield’s clash with Shrewsbury Town.

The first-year professional, younger brother of ex-Sheffield United centre-half Harry, has been a non-playing substitute in the Spireites’ first team but has yet to appear on the park.

The central defender could be called up due to Ian Evatt being out for around three weeks with an Achilles problem, Richard Wood being recalled by Rotherham United and Charlie Raglan, who has a groin injury, not having properly trained since being subbed at half-time at Peterborough United on Boxing Day.

Chesterfield’s manager said: “Charlie trained on Thursday but not with the group. He trained with the physio and fitness coach alongside Drew Talbot (hamstring).

“We don’t know how Laurence will do if he’s thrown in but I’ve got no problems throwing him in if I need to. The only way we’ll find out if he’s ready is by playing him.

“We’ll pick our team on Friday night, even Saturday morning, and if we have to bring someone in we’ll do that.

“I’m not going to risk Charlie if he’s not fully ready. There’s no point, for the sake of a week, pitching him in and possibly losing him for six weeks.”

Goalkeeper Tommy Lee will be making his 300th league appearance for the club and will be formally thanked ahead of the game. Wilson said: “I always knew he was a good keeper but, seeing him at close quarters, I realise just how good he is.

“He’s constantly talking with and organising the back four. He’s popular with the crowd and has been very loyal. The club could easily have sold him on in the past but he’s stayed here for many years.”

Wilson will have Chris Morgan alongside him as first-team coach for the first time.

“He’s a great coach and a great man,” said Wilson. “I’ve known him since he was a young player at Barnsley.”